THE people of Thurrock can enjoy a continental take on Christmas thanks to a market with a difference.

Foods from France, Scandinavia, Spain, Italy and Germany will make up a continental market in Grays from Thursday, December 19 to Saturday, December 21.

On Sunday, December 22 and Monday, December 23 the market will continue with a smaller market that concentrates on Italian food.

The regular Friday and Saturday markets will still be held on the Friday and Saturday of the continental market with extra Christmas market days on Sunday, December 22 and Tuesday, December 24.

The annual Monday market will still be on December 23.

Cllr John Kent, Thurrock Council Leader, praised market managers Hughmark and the council’s business support team on bringing the market to Grays.

He said: “We will have a Continental market in town for the best part of a week and alongside our usual popular market. This should bring more people into town on those days boosting trade for all of Grays’ stores.

“There’s no doubt I’ll be looking for some tasty bargains to take home and I’d suggest everyone who can to come and see what’s on offer.

“Remember, all council-owned car parks and roadside parking spaces will be free of charge on each Saturday throughout December.”